Researchers note that around 30,000 pieces of space debris larger than 10 centimetres are currently orbiting the Earth. These include defunct satellites, discarded rocket stages and fragments of metal left behind by previous space missions. Travelling at speeds of several kilometres per second, such objects can collide and generate even more debris, further contaminating orbital pathways.
Scientists stress that without effective intervention, the continued build-up of orbital waste could jeopardise GPS navigation, satellite communications and weather monitoring systems, which underpin modern economies and public safety worldwide.
To address the challenge, researchers are developing a dedicated scientific project focused on neutralising and removing uncontrolled objects from orbit. The project explores multiple strategies, including capturing debris, deorbiting it and ensuring its safe destruction in the Earth’s atmosphere.
The core concept involves slowing down large, unmanaged debris objects by attaching a specially designed structure that increases their surface area. This leads to higher atmospheric drag, gradually reducing the object’s velocity.
As the debris slows, it descends into lower orbits and eventually burns up upon re-entry, eliminating the risk of further orbital collisions. Mathematical models are used to calculate debris control mechanisms, including systems based on tether technology, which employs thin connecting cables to stabilise and guide objects.
According to researchers, space debris mitigation is emerging as a fast-developing and strategically important scientific field, reflecting humanity’s responsibility in managing shared orbital resources.
